Abstract: Raman spectra of liquid nitromethane were measured in single-shock experiments using transient Raman scattering system with high sensitivity. The measurement system was combined with a two-stage light gas gun to interrogate the vibrational mode-dependent behaviors of shock-compressed nitromethane molecules. Up to 12 GPa, all Raman peaks were able to be clearly detected, and showed the shock-induced shifting and broadening, but no signs of chemical changes occurred in the sample. Thus, it is concluded that chemical reactions could not be initiated in singly-shocked nitromethane below 12 GPa.